The University of Northern Colorado is proud to continue to educate and serve teachers since 1889.
When UNC first opened their doors, they were known as the Colorado Normal School specializing in a two-year teacher program. In 1911, the university began offering a four-year program for teachers and changed their name to Colorado State Teachers College. When graduate programs and doctoral programs were added, the university changed its name two more times before choosing the University of Northern Colorado.
Today, the university has other programs but still produces thousands of graduates who have successful careers in education.
Earlier this month, the university hosted the ninth annual Future Teacher Conference for 528 students throughout Colorado who all share a similar passion for teaching.
During the conference, students learned what it takes to become a teacher. They got a special visit from UNC President Andy Feinstein and Emmy Award winner Steve Spangler. After listening to Spangler, students were taken to participate in different workshops around campus. The workshops included information and perspectives from early career teachers, veteran educators and UNC faculty.
The students were helped and guided by student volunteers majoring in teaching from UNC. Last year, volunteer Jasmine Gaines knew she wanted to come to the university. When she attended the conference last year, she said she knew she made the right decision. This year, Gaines volunteered at the conference to help students figure out if UNC is the right college for them.
“Seeing the behind the scenes and how much work actually goes into making a big event like this,” she said. “It's definitely really changed my outlook on it and like how much work it actually takes.”
This event has a large impact not only on the students who came to the conference, but the students who volunteered. It not only provided valuableinsights into the teaching profession but also fostered a sense of community among attendees. With the support of dedicated volunteers like Gaines, this event serves as a crucial stepping stone for those who wish to transform the future of education.
